Tortoises that spend at least a few hours a week outside absorb natural UVB rays from the sun. UVB triggers the tortoise’s body to create vitamin D3, which is important for calcium absorption. If your Russian tortoise spends time outside, then you want to offer a calcium supplement WITHOUT D3. Too much vitamin D3 can cause calcium and vitamin absorption problems.
If you don’t think that your Russian tortoise spends enough time outside, then you want to buy a calcium supplement with D3.
Zoo Med Reptile Calcium
Zoo Med Repti Calcium without D3 is an ultra-fine phosphorus-free calcium carbonate supplement. This calcium supplement has a unique surface area per gram that results in a better absorption rate.
Fluker’s Liquid Calcium Supplement
Fluker’s liquid calcium is a high-quality liquid calcium supplement. For best results, add it drinking water. Make sure to change it daily. It is important to pay close attention to the directions, as this is a highly concentrated calcium supplement.
Zilla Calcium Supplement Spray
Offer Zilla Calcium Food Spray one of two different ways.
- Spray the supplement directly onto the Russian tortoise’s food.
- Give the tortoise a few drops directly in its mouth.
If you have a tortoise that is exhibiting signs of a calcium deficiency, give the tortoise the liquid calcium directly per the directions.
Why is Calcium for Outside Russian Tortoise Important?
Calcium is vital to keep your Russian tortoise healthy. It ensures strong bones, healthy growth and healthy bodily functions, which is why it is important to make sure that your tortoise has calcium in his diet.
Without proper calcium, your tortoise can develop metabolic bone disease, which can be very painful and possibly lead to deformity and death if not treated. Other illness
Offer greens like kale, collard greens and spinach are rich in calcium. You don’t want to overfeed these greens because they are also high in oxalates, but the dark, leafy greens are safe to feed as a part of a varied diet.
If you are unsure whether your tortoise is consuming enough calcium, use a calcium supplement for your outside tortoise Sprinkle a calcium supplement on the tortoise’s food a few times a week or provide cuttlebone for your tortoise to chew on.
